Iberian lynx

About Iberian lynx

• It is one of two carnivore species endemic to Europe (the other being European mink, Mustela lutreola).
• It is the world's most endangered and known for its pointy ears, long legs and leopard-like spotted fur.
• This species, like other cat species, is sexually dimorphic, with males being heavier and longer than females. 
• This lynx is generally nocturnal and its activity patterns are closely synchronized with those of their major prey, the rabbit.
• Habitat: It requires variable terrain below 1300 m, containing a mosaic of closed Mediterranean scrubland interspersed with open patches of grassland, often with marsh ecotones.
• Distribution: It was once distributed throughout the Iberian Peninsula, the species is now sparsely distributed in Spain and Portugal.
• Threats: These are related to human activities, such as poaching and habitat destruction, Illegal Hunting and decreased food base etc.
• Conservation status
  • IUCN Red list: Endangered
  • CITES: Appendix II

Q1:What is the characteristic of Mediterranean forests?

 These are characterized by hot and dry summers, while winters tend to be cool and moist. These two types of vegetation occur between 30 and 40 degrees northern and southern latitudes on the westward sides of continents.